"My heart's broke!" "Your heart broken! How ?" "Before I can tell you, ma'am," cried the miserable Matilda, "I've got to make a confession.

I've done--something awful! I've disobeyed you, ma'am! I've disobeyed and deceived you!" "What, Matilda," said Mrs.De Peyster severely, "after the way I've trusted you for twenty years!" "Yes, ma'am.

But, I couldn't help it, ma'am! There's feelings one can't--" "But what have you done ?" "I've--I've fallen in love, ma'am.

For over a year I've been the same as engaged to William." "William!" cried Mrs.De Peyster, sinking back from her erect, reproving posture, and recalling an unforgettable episode.
"Yes, ma'am,--to William.

I'm sorry I disobeyed you, ma'am,--very sorry,--but I can't think about that now.